In a tragic incident that has shaken the community of Commodore in Linstead, St. Catherine, Jamaica, five individuals, including a four-year-old child, were fatally shot in what authorities believe to be a gang-related attack. The assailants, reportedly posing as police officers, stormed a residence along Commodore Road late Sunday night, leaving nine people injured, five of whom succumbed to their wounds. Among the deceased was a young student from Rosemont Primary and Infant School. The remaining four victims are currently hospitalized in serious condition. Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Christopher Phillips, the commanding officer for the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) Area Five, described the scene as “very, very awful,” noting that even a dog was killed in the attack. Phillips emphasized that the incident appears to be linked to gang violence, a situation that has been monitored by law enforcement for over a year without prior incidents. Senior Superintendent Hopeton Nicholson, head of the St. Catherine North Police Division, assured the community that the police are committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice swiftly and using all legal means available. He expressed condolences to the affected families and vowed to work tirelessly to remove such criminals from the streets.
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Sara Misir finishes second at Lagos Grand Prix
In a thrilling display of skill and determination, Jamaican motorsport sensation Sara Misir secured a second-place finish at the Lagos Grand Prix in Nigeria on Sunday. This remarkable performance not only highlighted her individual prowess but also propelled Team Blue Rising to third place in the team standings, setting the stage for an electrifying season finale at the E1 Series Grand Final in Miami on November 7–8. This event marked the first time the E1 Series was held in Africa, adding historical significance to the competition. Misir, alongside teammate John Peeters, built on their recent victory at the Monaco Grand Prix on July 19, delivering another strong showing in Lagos. Team Brazil by Claure Group claimed the top spot, while Team Drogba rounded out the podium in third. Misir’s strategic brilliance was evident as she surged from seventh to second place in the opening race, setting the tone for Peeters’ commanding win in his heat. Their combined efforts earned Misir a third-place grid position for the final race, where she demonstrated exceptional consistency and racecraft to secure second overall. This podium finish marks Team Blue Rising’s third consecutive top-three result, following victories in Monaco and Italy earlier this season. With four podium finishes in six events, Misir’s debut season in motorboat racing has been nothing short of extraordinary. The team now stands third in the championship standings, poised for a thrilling showdown in Miami. ‘It was a really intense race weekend, and I’m proud of how we fought through the field,’ Misir remarked. ‘The team strategy paid off, and we’re in a strong position heading into Miami. We can’t wait to give it my all at the Grand Final.’ The Miami Grand Prix promises high stakes and high drama as Misir continues to make waves for Jamaica in the world of motorsport.
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Jamaica to establish Caribbean’s first IICA Fab Lab for agricultural innovation – ministry
Jamaica is poised to become a regional leader in agricultural innovation with the launch of the Caribbean’s first IICA Fab Lab, a cutting-edge facility dedicated to advancing research, technology adoption, and creative solutions in agriculture. The initiative was confirmed during a bilateral meeting between a Jamaican delegation, led by Minister of Agriculture Floyd Green, and Dr. Manuel Otero, Director General of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), at the 19th Caribbean Week of Agriculture (CWA) in St. Kitts and Nevis. Minister Green emphasized that the Fab Lab underscores Jamaica’s commitment to modernizing agriculture and solidifying its leadership in the region. He stated, ‘Jamaica is making it clear that agriculture is a national priority, and we are determined to lead the region on a new trajectory of innovation and resilience.’ The Fab Lab, a digital fabrication laboratory equipped with advanced technology, will focus on designing and producing Internet of Things (IoT) equipment tailored for agricultural applications. It will also offer training and hands-on opportunities for farmers, youth, and entrepreneurs to enhance their skills in modern agricultural technologies, thereby advancing food security and competitiveness. Dr. Otero highlighted the significance of science and technology in agricultural development, noting that the Fab Lab aligns with IICA’s broader efforts under the Caricom Vision 25 x 2025+5 Initiative, which aims to reduce the region’s food import bill by 25% by 2030. The bilateral meeting also addressed strengthening cooperation in soil management, disaster preparedness, productivity, and market access, further cementing Jamaica’s role as a hub for regional and global agricultural advancement.
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Falmouth man missing; family hoping for the best
In Trelawny, Jamaica, the sudden disappearance of 77-year-old Dennis Mahoney, a dedicated worker at the Hampden Estate distillery, has left his family and community in distress. Mahoney was last seen leaving his Vanzie Land, Falmouth home for work on Monday, September 22. Despite extensive search efforts involving over 50 people, including members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), and local residents, there has been no trace of him. Canine units, drones, and military equipment were deployed during the search, which covered dense areas of Tilston, Wakefield, and nearby communities. Deputy Superintendent of Police Peter Salkey confirmed that the operation, which lasted from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm, yielded no results. Mahoney’s wife, Roselyn, remains hopeful, stating, ‘We don’t know what happened, but we still keep the faith.’ The family is urging anyone with information to contact the Falmouth Police Station or the nearest police station. Mahoney is described as having a brown complexion, medium build, and standing approximately 185 centimetres (6 feet 1 inch) tall.
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400 females share in women’s empowerment conference
Over 400 women from diverse backgrounds gathered at the Moon Palace All Inclusive Resort in St Ann, Jamaica, from September 26 for the Church of God of Prophecy Jamaica’s (COGOP) Daughters Unlocked (DU) Women’s Empowerment Conference. This transformative three-day event, themed ‘Beyond the Beyond,’ aimed to inspire women and girls aged 13-65 to transcend limitations and embrace their divine purpose. The conference featured a stellar lineup of speakers, including Apostle Isi Igenegba from Nigeria, Dr Terri-Karelle Johnson, Pastor Lecia Williams, and host Minister Nickeisha Smith, COGOP’s national women’s ministry director. Attendees explored topics ranging from faith and identity to economic empowerment and personal development. A highlight of the event was the ‘Women in Business – The Village’ experience, which provided a platform for female leaders to showcase their businesses and products. The conference also introduced ‘Girls Unlocked,’ a mentorship program for young women aged 13-17, offering guidance on communication, financial literacy, and personal growth. The event was enriched by powerful worship sessions led by Psalmists Minister Marsha Jarrett, Ja-Donne Grey, and Ayana Bonner, accompanied by the Rhoda Isabella Ministries (RIM) Band. Supported by sponsors such as Signature Products and Awards, Jamaica Public Service, and Cari-Med Group, the conference has grown significantly since its inception in 2019, impacting countless lives through spiritual growth, healing, and empowerment. The ministry also partnered with the End Period Poverty Campaign, providing resources and support for vulnerable women and girls. Conference planning committee chairperson, Minister Sheriann Ward, emphasized that Daughters Unlocked is more than an event—it is a community fostering faith, miracles, and spiritual awakening.
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Retirement or marketing gimmick? Cryptic LeBron video sets Internet buzzing
A mysterious 10-second video shared by NBA legend LeBron James on Monday sent shockwaves across the internet, leaving fans and media alike speculating about its meaning. The video, posted on James’ social media channels, teased a major announcement dubbed “The Second Decision,” scheduled for 1600 GMT on Tuesday. This immediately drew parallels to his infamous 2010 “Decision,” where he revealed his move from the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Miami Heat. The timing of the video is particularly significant, as James, now 40, is set to make history by becoming the first NBA player to begin a 23rd season. At a recent Lakers media day, James hinted that retirement is on the horizon, stating, “It’s a lot sooner than later.” However, the video’s ambiguity has also fueled theories about a potential commercial venture, given James’ extensive partnerships with brands like Amazon, which is hosting a sales event on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the speculation has already impacted ticket prices for the Lakers’ final home game against the Utah Jazz on April 12. According to reports, the cheapest ticket on Tickpick surged from $85 to $445, while SeatGeek and Ticketmaster listed prices as high as $821 and $955, respectively. Whether the announcement marks the end of an era or a new business endeavor, the world eagerly awaits James’ next move.
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Trump ‘happy’ to work with Democrats on health care, if shutdown ends
As the U.S. federal government shutdown entered its second week, President Donald Trump expressed willingness to negotiate health care reforms with Democrats, but only after the government reopens. The shutdown, which began last Wednesday, has left federal departments without funding, prompting Senate Democrats to block a temporary funding bill for the fifth time on Monday. Democrats are demanding an agreement on extending expiring ‘Obamacare’ subsidies and reversing health program cuts tied to Trump’s ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ before supporting a funding resolution. Trump, in a social media post, reiterated his stance, stating he is ‘happy’ to discuss health care policies but emphasized that reopening the government must come first. The impasse has led to widespread disruptions, with non-critical services suspended and hundreds of thousands of public sector employees facing delayed salaries. Military personnel could also miss paychecks starting October 15. Trump has escalated the situation by threatening mass layoffs rather than temporary furloughs. Republicans, led by House Speaker Mike Johnson, insist on reopening the government before addressing health care issues. Meanwhile, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer urged immediate health care negotiations, accusing Republicans of delaying progress. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that Trump’s health care bill could strip 11 million Americans of coverage, while expiring Obamacare subsidies could leave millions more uninsured. As the shutdown continues, agencies like the EPA, NASA, and the Education Department are severely impacted, while others like Homeland Security remain largely unaffected. Public opinion, as reflected in a recent CBS News poll, narrowly blames Republicans for the deadlock. White House officials warn of potential layoffs if negotiations fail to progress.
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$2-million reward for information on Commodore shooting
In a decisive response to a tragic shooting incident in the Linstead community of Commodore, Jamaica, the government has announced a $2 million reward for information leading to the apprehension of those responsible. The attack, which occurred on Sunday evening, resulted in the deaths of five individuals, including a four-year-old child. Prime Minister Andrew Holness, during a community visit on Monday, emphasized the importance of citizen cooperation in bringing the perpetrators to justice. He urged residents to share any relevant information with the authorities, stating that it is both a civic duty and in the community’s best interest. Holness also highlighted the broader context of crime reduction in Jamaica, noting that despite this devastating incident, the country remains 40% below last year’s murder rate. He expressed confidence in the police’s ability to handle the situation, drawing parallels to the Cherry Tree Lane massacre in Clarendon, where eight people were killed. The Prime Minister assured that the police would adopt a proactive and enduring strategy to prevent reprisals and maintain security in the affected area. Reports indicate that the attackers, some disguised as police officers, stormed a family yard around 8:45 pm, opening fire and injuring nine people, five of whom succumbed to their injuries.
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No air traffic control at LA area airport amid US govt shutdown—governor
The Hollywood Burbank Airport in California experienced a critical shortage of air traffic controllers on Monday evening, as the ongoing US government shutdown continues to disrupt essential services across the nation. Governor Gavin Newsom highlighted the issue, stating that the airport would be without qualified staff in its control tower for approximately six hours, from 4:15 PM to 10:00 PM. In a pointed message on social media, Newsom attributed the situation to the government shutdown, directly addressing former President Donald Trump. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed delays of up to two-and-a-half hours for departures, citing reduced staffing levels. Airport operations were managed remotely by a team in San Diego, though officials assured that flights continued despite the challenges. The shutdown, now in its second week, stems from a political impasse between Republicans and Democrats over funding for government functions, including healthcare subsidies and program cuts. Essential workers, such as air traffic controllers, are required to work without pay, raising concerns about the sustainability of this arrangement. Democrats are withholding support for reopening federal departments until agreements are reached on healthcare provisions, while Republicans argue that these issues should be addressed separately. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that millions of Americans could lose healthcare coverage if the subsidies expire, exacerbating the crisis.
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Shhhh! California bans noisy TV commercials
LOS ANGELES, United States (AFP) – California has taken a decisive step to address a long-standing grievance of television viewers by enacting a new law that prohibits excessively loud commercials. Effective immediately, advertisements aired in the state must not exceed the volume of the programming they interrupt. This legislation marks a significant update to outdated regulations, extending its scope beyond traditional broadcast and cable providers to include streaming services. Governor Gavin Newsom emphasized the public’s demand for this change, stating, ‘We heard Californians loud and clear, and what’s clear is that they don’t want commercials at a volume any louder than the level at which they were previously enjoying a program.’ The law aims to enhance the viewing experience by eliminating the jarring transition from serene programming to blaring advertisements, a common frustration for audiences nationwide.
